Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has confirmed a grand opening date for Great Tides Waterpark at its private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay. The nearly six-acre waterpark will welcome its first guests on Sept. 4, 2026, during Norwegian Luna's seven-day Caribbean sailing. Day pass sales are open for all guests sailing to the island on or after that date.
The park's focal point is the 170-foot Tidal Tower, home to what NCL calls industry-first water coasters that combine downhill drops with uphill propulsion inside inner tubes. The broader lineup of 19 slides spans body slides, mat racers and tube slides. Cliffside Cove will feature what NCL describes as the industry's first and highest cliff jumps, while a four-person body slide carries the distinction of being the only such attraction in the Caribbean. Younger visitors can access a dedicated 9,000-square-foot splash zone, and a winding river attraction stretches more than 800 feet throughout the park.
"Great Stirrup Cay continues to evolve as the premier private island destination in the Bahamas, and we're excited to officially open Great Tides Waterpark on Sept. 4, 2026," said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. "With the best activities for families and for every type of traveler — from high-energy slides to laid-back lagoon experiences — guests can purchase their day passes ahead and lock in an unforgettable day on the most spectacular private island in the Caribbean."
Private cabanas seating up to six are available to reserve alongside day passes, with cabana bookings including waterpark admission. Three food trucks will round out the on-site dining options.
Great Tides joins a growing collection of amenities already in place at Great Stirrup Cay, including the Great Life Lagoon — a beach-entry pool with swim-up bars — the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, family area Splash Harbor and an island-wide tram system.
To be on the island for opening day, travelers can book Norwegian Luna's seven-day Caribbean itinerary departing Miami on Aug. 29, 2026. The sailing includes stops in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands before calling at Great Stirrup Cay. Norwegian Luna itineraries continue through November 2026. For a shorter option, Norwegian Getaway operates three- and four-night Bahamas voyages from Miami through October 2026. Year-round access to Great Stirrup Cay is also available via sailings from New York, Philadelphia and multiple Florida homeports including Miami, Jacksonville, Tampa and Port Canaveral.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Norwegian Cruise Line. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
